On October 30, 2026, Morocco's Royal Diwan issued a statement announcing that the United Nations Security Council had not renewed the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO). This development marks a significant shift in the management of the Western Sahara file. The statement emphasized that the presence of MINURSO in the southern regions of Morocco will come to an end in the coming days. This move is seen as a major step towards the final resolution of the Western Sahara conflict.
The Royal Diwan's statement highlighted that the non-renewal of MINURSO's mandate is a clear indication that the mission's presence in the region is no longer needed. This decision comes after the UN Security Council's Resolution 2797, adopted in 2025, which recognized the autonomy initiative under Moroccan sovereignty as the only viable solution to the conflict. The statement also emphasized Morocco's commitment to the ceasefire and its determination to protect its territorial integrity and national security.
The end of MINURSO's mission marks a new phase in Morocco's diplomatic efforts to resolve the Western Sahara conflict. The Moroccan autonomy initiative, which was presented in 2007, has gained significant international support. The statement cited that over two-thirds of UN member states, including several permanent members of the Security Council, support the Moroccan initiative. This development is seen as a significant boost to Morocco's diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict.
The Royal Diwan's statement also highlighted the importance of the upcoming anniversary of Morocco's Unity Day on October 31. The day commemorates the country's unity and solidarity with its southern regions. The statement emphasized that the end of MINURSO's mission is a significant milestone in Morocco's efforts to assert its sovereignty over its southern regions.
Morocco's Ambassador to the UN, Omar Hilal, has strongly criticized Algeria's stance on the Western Sahara conflict. In a recent statement, Hilal accused Algeria of preventing refugees from returning to their homes. He also questioned the lack of individual registration of Tindouf camp residents under the supervision of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees.
The development has been welcomed by several countries and international organizations. The African Union has expressed its support for Morocco's efforts to resolve the conflict. The AU has emphasized the importance of finding a peaceful and sustainable solution to the conflict, which has lasted for over three decades.
The end of MINURSO's mission marks a significant shift in the international community's approach to the Western Sahara conflict. The Moroccan autonomy initiative is seen as a viable solution to the conflict, and several countries have expressed their support for the initiative. The development is expected to have significant implications for the region and the international community.
Key points
- Morocco's Royal Diwan announces end of MINURSO mission
- Moroccan autonomy initiative gains significant international support
- End of MINURSO's mission marks new phase in Morocco's diplomatic efforts
